Call SAMU 192: Explain a Medical Emergency in Portuguese
In an urgent medical situation, state that help is needed, give the location, and answer the call handler's questions as clearly as possible.
Real Life Portuguese · 5 min read · Updated October 15, 2026
The short answer
SAMU is Brazil's mobile emergency medical service and is reached at 192. If the situation appears to need urgent medical response, say that clearly before explaining the full story. Follow instructions from the official call handler.
Open the call with a short statement
The phrases below are language practice, not a way to assess symptoms or decide whether someone needs care. Use current local emergency guidance when you need help.
Preciso de uma ambulância. É uma emergência médica.
I need an ambulance. It is a medical emergency.
Uma pessoa está passando mal.
Someone is feeling very unwell.
Give a location and a callback number
Give the address slowly, including the city and neighborhood if known. Add a landmark or entrance detail that helps responders find the place. Be ready to repeat the street name or number.
If the call handler asks for a phone number, say each digit distinctly. Do not hang up until the dispatcher indicates the call is finished or you receive other instructions.
Estamos na Avenida Central, número 80, apartamento 12.
We are at 80 Avenida Central, apartment 12.
O portão fica ao lado da farmácia.
The gate is beside the pharmacy.
Answer questions without adding guesses
The call handler may ask what happened, how many people need help, or whether there are other immediate risks. Answer only what you know. If you do not understand, ask for repetition or slower speech.
A short answer is easier to understand in a stressful moment. A nearby person who speaks Portuguese can help communicate, but keep the line available for the dispatcher.
Não sei o que aconteceu. Encontrei a pessoa assim.
I don't know what happened. I found the person like this.
Pode repetir a pergunta, por favor?
Could you repeat the question, please?
Put it into practice
For a medical emergency in Brazil, SAMU is reached at 192. Give the location and follow the official call handler's instructions.
Quick practice
Which Portuguese example matches “I need an ambulance. It is a medical emergency”?
Choose an answer to check yourself.
Keep practicing with the Real Life Portuguese app
Build on this guide with everyday expressions and native Brazilian audio. Choose iPhone, Android, or the web app.